A computer network is a collection of interconnected computing devices that can communicate with each other and share data, resources, and services over wired or wireless links. These networks enable devices like computers, printers, routers, and servers to exchange information and collaborate, whether within a single building or across the internet. Networks are organized using standards and protocols to govern how data is formatted, addressed, transmitted, and secured. Key concepts

• Nodes and links: Devices (nodes) such as computers or printers connect via transmission media (links) like Ethernet cables or Wi-Fi.
• Addresses and naming: Devices use IP addresses (and sometimes hostnames) to identify and reach each other on a network.
• Protocols: Rules for communication (for example, TCP/IP for internet communication, HTTP for web, DNS for name resolution).
• Topologies: The arrangement of nodes and links (star, bus, ring, mesh) that defines how data flows.
• Roles and models: Networks can be client-server (centralized resources) or peer-to-peer (resources shared among peers).

Practical examples

• Local area network (LAN): A group of devices in a home or office sharing printers, files, and internet access.
• Wide area network (WAN): A network that spans broad geographical areas, often connecting multiple LANs, typically using internet or private circuits.
• Wireless networks: Wi‑Fi networks that enable devices to connect without physical cables.
• Internet: A global network of networks enabling communication and access to services like email, websites, and cloud resources.

If you’d like, I can tailor a concise definition for your audience (e.g., students, professionals, or a layperson) or provide a short diagrammatic explanation of common network topologies.